William Merle Calhoun

William Merle Calhoun, 75, passed away peacefully at home in Mesa, AZ with his life partner of 24 years, Crystal Jones by his side, on Sunday, March 23, 2025 after a long battle with cancer.         

William was born on August 19, 1949 in Watertown, NY to the late Ernest and Shirley (Freeman) Calhoun, Sr.  Bill attended Watertown City Schools.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Sara Johnson and her husband, Christopher of Asheville, NC.  His son, Benjamin “Kain” Calhoun and his wife, Robin of Hastings, MN.  In addition to his children, he leaves behind four grandsons, Hayward (Anne) Rowles, Camden Rowles, Phillip Lytle (Maile Emile), Khiry Lytle of NC, granddaughters Tierney McAdams of NC and LaKynzee (Nicholas) Bornstein of NH.  4 step grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Arthur (Wanda)  Calhoun of LaFargeville, NY, Patrick Calhoun of Watertown, NY, 6 sisters, Linda (Rick) Morris, Rebecca (Tim) Towsley , Shirley (Jack) Weston, Colleen Calhoun (Edward Sanford), Cathleen (Patrick) O’Bryan, Eileen Calhoun, all of Watertown, NY; one aunt, several nieces, nephews cousins. 

Along with his parents, William was proceeded in death by three of his siblings; Mary Beaumont, Michael Calhoun and Ernest Calhoun, Jr., a nephew Justin Kirby and his beloved Cat, Kittydog.

Bill loved the great outdoors, the desert, fishing, and his beloved rock collection.  He will be remembered for his famous fish chowder.  He was a great storyteller, he was loved and will be greatly missed by his family. 

There will be no funeral per his request.  A private burial will take place at the family’s convenience at N Watertown Cemetery.  A celebration of life will take place at the American Legion Post 61 on Sterling St in Watertown on May 2, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.  Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society (Compassionate Penguins).